TAIPEI,Taiwan: Taiwan is bracing for Super Typhoon Kong-rey, expected to make landfall on Thursday along the east coast. Packing nearly 300 kph winds, the storm has intensified to a “strong typhoon” level, with forecasters predicting it will strike Taitung County before moving south across Taiwan and then toward China.
Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration forecasts up to 1.2 meters of rainfall in mountainous areas and destructive winds in coastal regions, warning residents to avoid high-risk areas.
In response, Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te urged citizens in eastern, southern, and northern areas to stay vigilant and safe. Around 36,000 troops are on standby to assist as necessary, according to Taiwan’s defense ministry. Disruptions have already begun: the transport ministry canceled 26 ferry trips to outlying islands, and UNI Air suspended all domestic flights for Thursday.
Stan Chang, a Central Weather Administration forecaster, noted that the typhoon is unusually strong for this time of year, driven by warmer-than-average sea temperatures. Rain and high winds are anticipated around Taipei and other northern areas throughout Thursday, with authorities urging residents to make necessary preparations.
